Epic winter, warm weather have Yosemite waterfalls booming

Updated 4:00 am, Saturday, May 6, 2017

Click through the slideshow to see some of the best photos from Yosemite this week:

Click through the slideshow to see some of the best photos from Yosemite this week:

Photo: Janet Kopper/Getty Images

Image 2 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Myodyssey2020/Instagram

Image 3 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Wanderingsuze/Instagram

Image 4 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Evgenjib/Instagram

Image 5 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Tommusrhodus/Instagram

Image 6 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Greg_olee/Instagram

Image 7 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Amanda_fontenot/Instagram

Image 8 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Matty225/Instagram

Image 9 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Eyesleep777/Instagram

Image 10 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Haziqbani/Twitter

Image 11 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Keoleenan/Instagram

Image 12 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Tiggerlovesyou/Instagram

Image 13 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Maria_neverova_art/Instagram

Image 14 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Sugarppiez/Instagram

Image 15 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Haziqbani/Twitter

Image 16 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Bugsff/Instagram

Image 17 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Lesly_edith/Instagram

Image 18 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Haziqbani/Twitter

Image 19 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Andrea_gsousa/Instagram

Image 20 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Startheadventure/Instagram

Image 21 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Mightymarce/Instagram

Image 22 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Colettesellsrealestate/Instagram

Image 23 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Joelwalters43/Instagram

Image 24 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Sublime_oculus/Instagram

Image 25 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Andretedim/Instagram

Image 26 of 49

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Social media users have been sharing pictures of massive waterfalls and rainbows at Yosemite National Park in May 2017.

Photo: Mikegoesoutside/Instagram

Image 27 of 49

From the Iron Door Saloon in Groveland (pictured) to the H-B Saloon in Oakdale to Sugar Pine Diner in Mariposa, these are some of the best food stops on drive from the Bay Area to Yosemite. Click through for the lowdown on all the tastiest eats and treats. less

From the Iron Door Saloon in Groveland (pictured) to the H-B Saloon in Oakdale to Sugar Pine Diner in Mariposa, these are some of the best food stops on drive from the Bay Area to Yosemite. Click through for ... more

Image 28 of 49

Off Highway 120

Hula's, Escalon. Travelers from all over the world break here for giant, juicy burgers loaded with toppings and soft-serve shakes mixed with fresh fruit. There are over 24 different burgers to choose from the Knockout (pictured) topped with avocado, jalapeños and melted cheese. Outdoor patio and drive-through. 2261 Jackson Ave., (209) 838-7775

H-B Saloon, Oakdale. Wear your hat! This joint attracts a local cowboy crowd. Right across from the Cowboy Museum with walls filled with cowboy memorabilia. Order a charbroiled burger. Bring cash to pay for your meal and quarters to stick in the jukebox filled with country hits. It won't be the best meal you've ever had but it will be an experience. 401 E. F St., (209) 847-2985

H-B Saloon, Oakdale. Wear your hat! This joint attracts a local cowboy crowd. Right across from the Cowboy Museum with walls filled with cowboy memorabilia. Order a charbroiled burger. Bring cash to pay for

Iron Door Saloon, Groveland. This rollicking tavern has staked a claim as the oldest continuously drinking hole in California. Opened in 1852 as the Granite Store, the restaurant and bar is now owned by the Barsotti-Loh family who've been running the show for the last 30 years. Stop for a burger and a beer and if it's a weekend some live rock or blues. 18761 Main St., (209) 962-8904, iron-door-saloon.com less

Iron Door Saloon, Groveland. This rollicking tavern has staked a claim as the oldest continuously drinking hole in California. Opened in 1852 as the Granite Store, the restaurant and bar is now owned by the ... more

Photo: James Tensuan

Image 33 of 49

Dori's Tea Cottage and Cafe, Groveland. Enjoy a proper spot of tea in a proper atmosphere, complete with lace curtains, doilies and displays of bone china. Traditional British fare includes a wide array of dainty tea sandwiches, from egg salad with dill to blue cheese, cranberry and pear. 18744 Main St., (209) 962-5300, doristeacottage.com less

Dori's Tea Cottage and Cafe, Groveland. Enjoy a proper spot of tea in a proper atmosphere, complete with lace curtains, doilies and displays of bone china. Traditional British fare includes a wide array of ... more

Photo: James Tensuan

Image 34 of 49

Fork & Love Bistro, Groveland. This sophisticated eatery — i.e., high prices and small plates — serves inventive, locall inspired dishes that would excite even the most discerning city restaurant critic. Think wild red deer served with a rhubarb compote. Not a place to stop for a quick bite, but rather a destination restaurant to plan your trip around. Hotel Charlotte, 18736 Main St., (209) 962-6455, forkandlove.com less

Fork & Love Bistro, Groveland. This sophisticated eatery — i.e., high prices and small plates — serves inventive, locall inspired dishes that would excite even the most discerning city restaurant critic. ... more

Photo: James Tensuan

Image 35 of 49 |
The Grill at Pine Mountain Lake

The Grill at Pine Mountain Lake, Groveland. Unless you're a local, you'd never know about this spot off the main road. Dine on the outdoor deck with pretty mountain views. Country club fare including steaks, burgers, salads. 12765 Mueller Dr., (209) 962-8638, pinemountainlake.com

The Grill at Pine Mountain Lake, Groveland. Unless you're a local, you'd never know about this spot off the main road. Dine on the outdoor deck with pretty mountain views. Country club fare including steaks,

Priest Station Cafe, Big Oak Flat. At this family-owned restaurant serving mouthwatering food start with a fresh-squeezed lemonade and then move onto the rib eye steak Sandwich cooked to perfection, topped with caramelized
onions, lettuce & tomato on toasted Ciabatta. Top it all off with homemade apple crisp served hot with vanilla ice cream. Now you're ready to hike up Half Dome! 16756 Old Priest Grade, (209) 962-1888, prieststation.com less

Priest Station Cafe, Big Oak Flat. At this family-owned restaurant serving mouthwatering food start with a fresh-squeezed lemonade and then move onto the rib eye steak Sandwich cooked to perfection, topped with ... more

The Rock of Twaine Harte. This down-home joint fills the tiny town of Twaine Hart with the irresistible smell of barbecue. The meats are all flavored with homemade rubs and brines, and the fish and chips are also a favorite. 23068 Fuller Rd., (209) 586-2080, rockoftwainharte.com

The Rock of Twaine Harte. This down-home joint fills the tiny town of Twaine Hart with the irresistible smell of barbecue. The meats are all flavored with homemade rubs and brines, and the fish and chips are

June Bug Cafe, Midpines. Vegan and vegetarian fare are served in this cafe in a rustic mountain retreat. Case in point: the eggplant stuffed with lentils, tomatoes and feta cheese pictured. The heirloom tomatoes added to this entrée are grown in the on-site garden. 6979 Hwy. 140, (209) 966-6666, yosemitebug.com less

June Bug Cafe, Midpines. Vegan and vegetarian fare are served in this cafe in a rustic mountain retreat. Case in point: the eggplant stuffed with lentils, tomatoes and feta cheese pictured. The heirloom ... more

Photo: Courtesy Of June Bug Cafe

Image 45 of 49

Off Highway 41

South Gate Brewing Company, Oakhurst. On
warm, sunny days the roll-up garage-style doors at this brewery and restaurant
remain open and you can pull up at one of the tables and drink a handcrafted
beer while taking in the view of Deadwood Mountain. The menu features fresh pub
fair such as a pulled-pork sandwich with house-made barbecue sauce and a kale
salad massaged with local olive oil. 40233 Enterprise Dr., (559) 692-2739, southgatebrewco.com

South Gate Brewing Company, Oakhurst. On warm, sunny days the roll-up garage-style doors at this brewery and restaurant remain open and you can pull up at one of the tables and ... more

Photo: Greenraf/Flickr

Image 46 of 49

Reimer's
Candies and Ice Cream, Oakhurst. Kids screaming for ice
cream? This is your place to stop with 24 flavors of ice cream, sorbet and
gelato. Those with a sweet tooth will also be happy to fine 70 varieties of
gourmet chocolates, fudge and caramel apples. 41969 Hwy. 41, (559) 642-3232, reimerscandies.com

Reimer's Candies and Ice Cream, Oakhurst. Kids screaming for ice cream? This is your place to stop with 24 flavors of ice cream, sorbet and gelato. Those with a sweet tooth will also be happy to fine 70 ... more

Pete's Place, Oakhurst. Should you have a pastrami sandwich and zucchini fries, or a burger and onion rings? 40093 Hwy. 41, (559) 683-0772

Pete's Place, Oakhurst. Should you have a pastrami sandwich and zucchini fries, or a burger and onion rings? 40093 Hwy. 41, (559) 683-0772

Photo: Wim Laven/ Facebook

Image 49 of 49

Epic winter, warm weather have Yosemite waterfalls booming

1 / 49

Back to Gallery

The wettest winter for the Northern Sierra on record has combined with some warm weather to bring booming waterfalls to Yosemite National Park.

As the snow finally starts to melt, the national park's waterfalls are flowing at incredibly high volumes.

Waterfalls around Yosemite National Park at in their peak viewing months for visitors, as is evident by this spectacular scene at Yosemite Fall.

Media: KCRA / KQCA US

The water levels of the Merced River in Yosemite Valley have reached 11 feet, a foot over the river's 10 feet flood stage. That's not high enough to cause serious damage, but it is high enough to bring out serious photographers.

Social media users have captured gorgeous rainbows and gushing streams this week in the national park. Here's a sample of the videos capturing the roaring flows:

The park's website states that the spring season is "the perfect season for waterfalls." It's also one of the tougher times to score a reservation on the valley floor. It's even tougher in the backcountry, where hiking sites will likely remain snow-covered until June.

Latest from the SFGATE homepage:

Click below for the top news from around the Bay Area and beyond. Sign up for our newsletters to be the first to learn about breaking news and more. Go to 'Sign In' and 'Manage Profile' at the top of the page.